SCHOOL rock bands, craft clubs, theatre companies and poetry projects are just some of the arts groups in the area who can try to grab a share of Lottery cash.

Voluntary and professional organisations will be able to apply for grants worth up to £500,000 under a new scheme called Arts for Everyone.

Groups interested in getting their hands on a new pot of money can apply to the Arts Council from the beginning of January.

The cash can be used to help finance the cost of running projects, and does not have to be used for buildings and equipment as has been the case until now.

The Express grant - from £500 to £5,000, is aimed at youth or voluntary groups putting together their first creative project and at professional arts organisations.

The groups do not need to be formally constituted but should have two referees who will vouch for them.

Deadlines for applications are January 31 and April 30. Decisions should be made within eight weeks.

To qualify, projects should meet criteria such as encouraging people to participate in an activity, get young people involved, build on creative potential through training or professional development and encouraging new audiences.

The second Arts for Everyone grant - from £500 to £500,000 is aimed at established arts organisations, both professional and amateur, which have some kind of track record. Money will be given out four times a year, 12 weeks after the deadlines of March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31.

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